In the spirit of the Wisconsin Idea and our commitment to serving all Wisconsin communities, our summer enrichment program seeks students with a demonstrated interest in health equity, social impact, and belonging.
Quick Facts
- Current Phase 1 students can apply; position is paid
- Program runs for 8 weeks, generally from late May through July
- Deadline for Dermatology Health Equity Program Interest Survey for Summer 2026 is December 8, 2025
- Program includes exposure to all aspects of clinical dermatology, including medical, surgical, and laboratory
- Provides opportunity to explore candidate’s specific medical interest, which may include project or presentation
- Program includes one-on-one mentorship with dermatology faculty
- Opportunity to attend clinical lectures
How to Apply
- Applications for 2026 are open! Respond to the Dermatology Health Equity Program Interest Survey by December 8, 2025.
- Submitted applications will be reviewed December 2025 and scholars notified by January 2026
- This program is intended for students who are not participating in another funded clinical or research experience
“Being a Dermatology Health Equity Scholar this summer has been an incredibly memorable experience. I had the opportunity to learn about the field of dermatology from such passionate and supportive faculty members and residents, who made the experience much more meaningful. I would not have wanted to spend my summer any other way.” – Toan Vu, Dermatology Health Equity Scholar 2025
“My experience participating in the 2023 Dermatology [Health Equity] Scholars fellowship was a positive one, which permitted me to explore a profession I might not have otherwise considered while being surrounded by a faculty committed to the well-being of their patients and empowering learners to pursue their interests in dermatology.” – Gerardo Guilarte, Dermatology Health Equity Scholar 2023
“Participating in the Dermatology [Health Equity] Scholars Program was such an incredible experience where I was able to learn about every aspect of dermatology. I ended the program feeling like I had a much deeper understanding of the field, and also gained mentors and friends who will support me in my future endeavors, regardless of what they might be.” – Alexa Figueroa Baiges, Dermatology Health Equity Scholar 2022
FAQ
Who are we looking for?
We encourage applications from students with demonstrated interest in medically underserved populations, especially those without previous dermatology experience or exposure.
How many positions are available?
The department will offer up to three Health Equity Scholars Program positions each year.
How many weeks does the Dermatology Health Equity Program last?
The program lasts 8 weeks during the summer break between May and August.
Does the Health Equity Scholars Program pay?
Accepted Health Equity Scholars are paid a stipend of $450/week.
Will scholars have direct access to patient care?
Since this program is not a for-credit clinical rotation, students participate with UW Health observer status; this allows them to “shadow” physicians in clinic but does not allow direct participation in patient care.
Who do I contact with questions?
- If you have questions about the Dermatology’s Health Equity Scholars Program process or application survey, contact Mary Gannon.
- For additional questions about the program, please contact the Director of the Dermatology Health Equity Scholars Program, Dr. Jeanette Comstock.
Contacts
Dr. Jeanette Comstock
Director, Dermatology Health Equity Scholars Program
jcomstock@dermatology.wisc.edu
Dr. Daniel Bennett
Dermatology Faculty Champion for Health Equity
dbennett@dermatology.wisc.edu
Mary Gannon
Administrative Contact, Dermatology Health Equity Scholars Program
mgannon@dermatology.wisc.edu
To Heal
Our Mission
To Educate
To Discover